A sermon delivered by Puritan Preacher Jonathan Edwards and a political speech delivered by Virginian lawyer, Patrick Henry, are two of the most persuasive pieces of literature of the Enlightenment period. Both use rhetorical strategies to convey their urgent messages; some of which include, ethos, logos, pathos, repetition and imagery. The listeners of these works are called to action, pressed to alter their lives, and accept the presenter’s plan for their future. Patrick Henry’s speech, “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death at the Virginia convention far more effective at persuading his listeners to take action because of his ability to cultivate allegiance and respect for the audience. In Contrast, Jonathan Edwards sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” denounces his listeners with scornful accusations of their faith in god. Jonathan Edward’s role as minister establishes his ethical and moral stance. Yet he chooses to instill fear and worry within his listeners, “so thus it is , that natural men are held in the hand of God over the pit of Hell; they have deserved the fiery pit, and already sentenced to it; and God is dreadfully provoked.”(267) When appealing to the moral reasoning of the convention members Patrick Henry assures them that God will …show more content…
Once again, the difference in tone and use is not lost on the audience. Edwards emphasizes the wrath of god numerous times in the sermon. “The wrath of God is like great waters that are dammed for the present” The bow of God’s wrath is bent, and the arrow made ready on the string”. “There are black clouds of God’s wrath now hanging directly over your heads, full of dreadful storm” (267). Patrick Henry’s use of this strategy is a call to action that creates unity with the listeners, "The war is inevitable--and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come." "We must fight! I repeat it, sir, we must fight!"